A message to the Junior Cert Class of 2015 from the National 24 Hour Helpline for Sexual Violence

1 800 778888 - Let your hair down but not your guard

The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) urges parents and the Junior Cert Class of 2015 to read the Staying Safe Tips before the celebrations begin.

Ellen O’Malley-Dunlop, Chief Executive DRCC said:  “The months of waiting and anticipation will come to an end for the Junior Certificate Students of 2015 when the results of the exams are received today. We know there will be lots of celebrations and some disappointments, but hopefully not too many of the latter.

We also know that the celebrations can leave some young people, as a result of drinking too much alcohol, vulnerable to the predators who may take advantage of them physically and sexually.  We urge parents, teachers, communities and the class of 2015 to take a few minutes to read the Staying Safe Tips* devised in consultation with young people to help, support and to warn but not to blame any young person who is celebrating tonight.

It is possible to have a great time and to let your hair down but not to let your guard down. To the families, friends and the Junior Cert Class of 2015 we say, enjoy and remember the Junior Cert.  Results  celebration!.”

Some facts to keep in Mind

• The age of consent for having sex in Ireland is 17 years
• If a person has sex with another person without their consent it is a crime

• Be aware that having sexual intercourse with a person without their consent constitutes rape.  A person may not give their consent freely if they are asleep, are unconscious or severely impaired due to alcohol.

• When a person is taken advantage of in any of these circumstances whereby they have not given their consent freely, they suffer the huge trauma of the effects of being raped

Staying Safe Tips

*Some of these tips are educational, some are warnings and overall they are devised to raise awareness and to ensure that we can all be safe and enjoy our time out.

• Look out for each other
• Stay with your group of friends and try not get separated from your group
• Trust your instincts; if you feel uncomfortable in a place or with someone, leave as soon as possible
• Do not drink to excess and keep your drink in your hand at all times

• Do not accept a drink from someone you have just met
• Stay in popular places and do not go to remote places
• Share taxis and lifts
• If you have to travel alone make sure you phone ahead to where you are going and in the hearing of the driver give your estimated  time of arrival
• Make sure your mobile is charged at all times

• Key the National 24 hour helpline 1 800 77 88 88* into your phone
• Report any crime to the Gardai (if you wish) and seek medical help

*If you need any help or are unsure of what to do, call  the National 24 hour Helpline 1 800 77 88 88 where you will get support and guidance from a trained person